Whether you’re installing a fence, planting a tree, digging a pool, or building a patio, there are multiple reasons you may be considering digging on your property. However, before you put that shovel (or excavator) to the ground, it is essential first to learn what is beneath the surface. Hidden below your property may be gas lines, electrical cables, water pipes, or other utility lines that, if struck, can cause serious injury. Alternatively, hitting the wrong line may result in costly repairs or service disruptions.
In Ontario, you have a legal requirement to obtain underground utility locates before you begin a digging project. Luckily, Enbridge has shared some essential steps to take when it comes to digging responsibly, which we’ve summarized for you. This way, you can protect your property and those around you!
Do Your Research Before Digging
As mentioned above, you never know what may be hiding under your property, or how deep. It is vital to make sure you dig safely around natural gas lines in order to avoid injury, disruptions, and even death. Some risks when it comes to hitting natural gas lines can include:
- Seriously injuring yourself, your family, or your neighbours.
- Damaging your property due to a natural gas leak, fire, or explosion.
- Interrupting natural gas services to you or your neighbours.
- Risk expensive repairs, charges, or legal action.
- Causing harm to the environment.
Before you dig, it is critical to do your research and get a locate for projects of all sizes. In many cases, people make the mistake of assuming that their contractor has already taken care of this. However, this isn’t always the case. Make sure to notify them and ask for verification that they’ve requested a locate before any major digging occurs.
What Types of Projects Require a Locate Before Digging?
Projects of all sizes can require a locate to avoid injury or other disturbances. Some examples include:
- Landscaping
- Building a fence
- Digging a garden
- Installing a driveway
- Planting a tree
- Building a deck
- Waterproofing a basement
- Installing an underground pool
If you are starting a project and are unsure as to whether or not an underground locate is required, it is best to play it safe and assume you do! Alternatively, you can visit OntarioOneCall.ca and inquire as to whether or not a dig is necessary.
Steps To Take Before You Begin Digging
Do you want to begin digging on your land? Well, there are a few steps to take before you begin doing so. By following these steps, you can have peace of mind knowing you and your neighbours will remain safe and sound during your project.
1. Request A Locate
Requesting a locate before you dig is not only critical to the safety of you and your neighbours, but it is also legally required. Visit OntarioOneCall.ca or give them a call at least five business days before you begin your project. Before you begin your dig, you’ll be asked to provide the following information:
- Your name and address.
- When work is expected to begin.
- The type of project you are starting (fence, pool, garden, etc.).
- How do you plan on digging (by hand or by machine)?
- How deep are you planning to dig?
Once you have provided the correct information and are given the go-ahead, you are free to move on to the next step!
2. Wait For the Buried Lines To Be Marked
Locators from natural gas, sewer, water, electric, and telecommunications companies will visit your home and either paint or put out flags to mark any underground lines. Please remember that private lines installed by you or a contractor, such as a natural gas line from your home to a barbecue, are not included in this work.
3. Respect The Marks and Dig Safely!
Once the locates have been completed, you will need to follow the instructions and practice proper excavation practices. This will ensure both a safe and smooth project.
Digging Safely Around Natural Gas Lines
Once a locate has been completed and you are given the go-ahead to begin your digging. However, it is crucial to take the necessary steps to make sure your project remains smooth and safe. Let’s take a look at the steps:
1. Understand your locate: Locates will show you the approximate position of any underground lines or cables. On the other hand, locate sheets will map out the area.
2. Dig around any natural gas lines with a shovel: Now, buried lines may not be as deep as you expect. This means that getting to them can be simple with a shovel. If you’re using equipment within one metre of a locate mark, make sure you expose the natural gas line with a shovel or small spade.
3. Recognize natural gas lines: Several types of natural gas lines may be hidden below your property. In order to correctly identify them, they are generally colour coded on your locate. The colours are as follows:
- Yellow: Natural gas, oil, steam
- Green: Sewer, storm
- Red: Electrical
- Orange: Communication
- Blue: Water
- Purple: Irrigation, slurry
- Pink: Temporary survey markings
- White: Proposed excavation
Digging Safely: Conclusion
Remember, requesting a locate is your legal obligation before digging. It is always better to be safe than sorry! If you are digging and you damage a natural gas line or smell gas, remember to stop work immediately, evacuate, and call 911! Do you have any questions about renovations and how they can affect your home insurance? In the market for a new insurance policy? Don’t hesitate to contact us at isure or request a quote today!
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